14 January 2009

Drakesbrook Dam near Waroona will undergo a significant upgrade beginning next month, as part of a statewide program to bring public dams in line with current engineering standards.

Water Corporation Regional Business Manager Scott Moorhead said the project would take place in two stages spanning a total of 18 months, and would include modifications to the dam embankment, replacement of the existing spillway, and improvements to outlet infrastructure.

He said the works would begin in February and the dam would need to be empty by April 2009 to facilitate outlet works.

"Water will be gradually drawn down this summer, giving us access to specific areas of the dam that require maintenance or improvement," he said. "The dam will be refilled over winter, and environmental management plans are in place to ensure that impacts to flora and fauna are managed.

"We will be working closely with regulators and other stakeholders including Department of Fisheries and Department of Environment and Conservation as the project continues.

"Works will continue after winter 2009, and while we will need to maintain a safe water level we do not expect to draw the dam down significantly next summer."

Mr Moorhead said that for safety reasons, public access to the dam would be restricted during the works.

"We recognise the recreational value of the dam to the community, however large machinery will be operating in these areas and restricting access is a necessary precaution," he said. "I would like to thank the community in anticipation of their cooperation."

Mr Moorhead said the Corporation had worked closely with Harvey Water during the planning of the project and would continue to do so as works proceeded.

Harvey Water Chief Executive Officer Geoff Calder said irrigators had been advised about the planned maintenance some time ago.

"Harvey Water has recognised and agreed to manage retaining pressure in farm water supply and the effects will depend on the autumn rainfall," Mr Calder said.

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